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Directions: Read the two stories Amy’s Metaphor and From Scratch. Take notes about the

similarities and differences between the characters, plot, theme, etc. Use your notes to answer the
questions below. Be sure to answer the questions in complete sentences or points may be taken
off.
Amy’s Metaphor by Elisa Oh
1. What is Amy’s assignment, and why does she struggle to complete the second part?

2. How are the events of the plot of Amy’s Metaphor organized, and what point of view is it
written in?

3. What is Amy upset about, and how does her view of herself change by the end? Support your
answer with evidence from the text (linked here).

From Scratch by Susie Castellano
4. Why does Priya feel sad in the kitchen, and how does her relationship with her mother change
throughout the story?

5. How are the events of the plot of From Scratch structured, and what point of view is it written
in?

6. How does Priya’s perspective change by the end of the story? Support your answer with
evidence from the text (linked here).

Compare/Contrast Both Stories

7. How do both stories mix present and past events in their plot structure?

8. How do the main characters’ struggles with identity and emotions shape their experiences?

9. In what ways do Amy and Priya grow by the end of their stories, and how do their final
moments show this change?

I enjoyed reading ___________more because the_______. My attention was captured
when________. I was able to relate to the character when she ______. My favorite part of the story was
____. I would recommend this story to a friend because_____. But make it simple

1 answer

Notes on "Amy's Metaphor" by Elisa Oh

  1. Amy's Assignment: Amy's assignment involves creating a metaphor that reflects her feelings. She struggles with the second part because she feels disconnected from her identity and emotions, making it hard to express herself creatively.

  2. Plot Organization and Point of View: The plot of "Amy’s Metaphor" is organized chronologically, as we follow Amy through her assignment. It is written in the first-person point of view, allowing readers to experience her thoughts and feelings directly.

  3. Amy's Upset and Change in Self-View: Amy is upset about her sense of not fitting in and struggling with her identity. By the end of the story, her view of herself changes as she gains confidence in her unique voice. For example, she ultimately comes to appreciate her individuality rather than see it as a burden.

Notes on "From Scratch" by Susie Castellano

  1. Priya's Sadness and Relationship with Her Mother: Priya feels sad in the kitchen because the space reminds her of her mother's absence and the memories they shared. Throughout the story, her relationship with her mother evolves from one of sadness to a recognition of her mother's influence and love, which helps her find comfort.

  2. Plot Structure and Point of View: The events of "From Scratch" are structured through flashbacks intertwined with present-day experiences in the kitchen, revealing Priya's memories and emotions. It is also written in the first-person point of view, providing an intimate look at Priya's thoughts.

  3. Priya's Perspective Change: By the end of the story, Priya’s perspective changes as she learns to accept her mother's memory and find joy in cooking. Evidence of this change is seen when she embraces cooking as a way to honor her mother rather than a painful reminder of loss.

Compare/Contrast Both Stories

  1. Mixing Present and Past Events: Both stories use a blend of past and present events to depict the characters’ emotional journeys. In "Amy's Metaphor," past experiences shape Amy's struggles with identity, while flashbacks in "From Scratch" help Priya come to terms with her mother’s absence.

  2. Struggles with Identity and Emotions: Both Amy and Priya face struggles with their identities and emotions, which deeply influence their experiences. Amy grapples with feeling out of place, while Priya deals with the loss of her mother, affecting their self-perception and emotional well-being.

  3. Growth of Amy and Priya: By the end of their stories, both Amy and Priya show significant growth. Amy learns to embrace her individuality, while Priya finds solace in her memories of her mother. Their final moments reflect this change: Amy confidently completes her metaphor, and Priya cooks with love for her mother.

I enjoyed reading "From Scratch" more because the emotional connection to family was powerful. My attention was captured when Priya found joy in cooking despite her grief. I was able to relate to the character when she struggled with remembering her mother but ultimately found comfort in her memories. My favorite part of the story was when she decided to make her mother's favorite dish, feeling her presence. I would recommend this story to a friend because it beautifully illustrates the healing power of food and memories.